Imagine you’ve invested years in CargoWise One, built workflows around it, trained your teams, and simplified your operations. Now you’re hearing about CargoWise Next, a new platform upgrade that promises to be “familiar but more future-ready.” The obvious questions come up: What’s changing? What stays the same? Do I need to prepare?
Let’s unpack everything you need to know about CargoWise Next, how it compares with CargoWise One, and why this upgrade matters in today’s logistics environment.
What’s the Difference Between CargoWise One and CargoWise Next?
Think of CargoWise Next as a continuation, not a replacement.
It retains the workflows, modules, and integrations that your team already relies on.
At the same time, it introduces a modernized user experience with smoother navigation, faster responsiveness, and a refreshed home screen.
Behind the scenes, it’s built on a stronger technical foundation that will support new features like a web-based version and enhanced security.
So while CargoWise One is still fully supported, CargoWise Next is designed to help forwarders stay competitive in a world where data accuracy, speed, and digital security matter more than ever.
Why Did WiseTech Launch CargoWise Next Now?
The logistics environment has changed dramatically:
- Global trade disruptions are more frequent.
- Customers expect real-time shipment visibility without delays.
- Cybersecurity threats have increased, especially with remote work and third-party integrations.
- Freight forwarders need systems that are future-proof without losing day-to-day stability.
CargoWise Next addresses these realities by:
- Offering a responsive interface that reduces system lag and operator frustration.
- Building the groundwork for web access, eliminating dependence on costly Remote Desktop Services.
- Preparing the platform for mega features that enhance automation, analytics, and visibility.
This isn’t just about a new look, it’s about ensuring that the platform grows with the challenges forwarders face.
What’s Included in CargoWise Next?
Right now, users who have been upgraded see:
A refreshed home screen with a modern, intuitive design.
A smoother, more responsive experience that feels quicker and more stable.
Platform architecture upgrades that are largely behind-the-scenes but critical for supporting future innovation.
The best part? Your workflows, customizations, and interfaces remain intact. You don’t have to rebuild or reconfigure your system.
What’s Coming Next for CargoWise Next?
WiseTech has laid out several enhancements that are in the pipeline:
A web-based version, no more Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) dependencies. This means lighter IT overhead and better accessibility.
Strengthened security features to protect sensitive shipments and financial data.
A new technical framework that will enable future product innovations, including advanced automation and mega features.
For forwarders, this means your investment in CargoWise isn’t just about today, it’s about setting your operations up for the next decade of digital logistics.
When Will the Web Version and Security Features Be Available?
Right now, WiseTech is in the final stages of development and testing. While official launch dates aren’t published yet, the expectation is that these features will roll out progressively after stability and performance benchmarks are met.
For forwarders, the key takeaway is:
- You don’t need to do anything.
- You’ll be notified when your upgrade is scheduled.
- The upgrade will be automatic and seamless, requiring no downtime from your team.
Are Forwarders Forced to Move Over to CargoWise Next?
No. You can technically stay on CargoWise One. But here’s the catch:
- Future innovations will be built on CargoWise Next’s technical framework.
- Staying on One means missing out on web access, advanced automation, and mega features.
- As supply chains demand faster, more secure systems, operating on older infrastructure may gradually limit competitiveness.
In other words, while the transition isn’t mandatory, it’s the smart move for forwarders who want to stay future-ready.
Do Customizations and Interfaces Carry Over?
Yes. One of the strengths of CargoWise Next is that all existing customizations, integrations, and interfaces carry forward.
That means:
- No rebuilding of connections with partners, carriers, or accounting systems.
- No retraining on workflows.
- Minimal disruption to daily operations.
- This continuity is why many forwarders describe the upgrade as “familiar but faster.”
Do Teams Need Training for CargoWise Next?
For the initial upgrade, no formal training is required. The home screen looks a bit fresher, and the system runs more smoothly, but workflows remain the same.
That said, as future features roll out, like web access or mega features, it’s wise to prepare your teams for:
- Updated login processes.
- Stronger security protocols.
- New productivity tools that change how they manage shipments and documents.
What About Licensing and Costs?
Here’s some good news: your pricing doesn’t change.
Your existing commercial terms remain the same.
The only update is a terminology shift in agreements, where “CargoWise One” is now written as “CargoWise Next.”
This means the upgrade is essentially added value without added cost.
What Are CargoWise Mega Features and How Do They Tie In?
Mega features are advanced tools currently available through an Early Access Agreement (EAA). These features aim to bring greater automation, efficiency, and scalability to freight forwarders.
Examples include:
- Advanced workflow automation.
- AI-driven document handling.
- More advanced analytics and reporting tools.
Once CargoWise’s new commercial model is rolled out, these features will be available to all Next users.
Conclusion
CargoWise Next isn’t about changing what forwarders already know, it’s about future-proofing freight operations with a smarter, more secure, and more responsive platform.
By moving to CargoWise Next, you get:
- A system that’s familiar but modernized.
- The foundation for web access and stronger security.
- Seamless upgrades without workflow disruption.
- Access to innovations that keep your freight forwarding business ahead.
For freight forwarders, the question isn’t if you’ll move to CargoWise Next, it’s when. The ones who adapt early will be the ones who benefit from cleaner data, stronger automation, and a competitive edge.
Need help preparing your business for CargoWise Next? Our certified CargoWise consultants specialize in workflow optimization, automation, and onboarding. Let’s make sure your transition to CargoWise Next is smooth, seamless, and aligned with your growth goals.
